The Huntingdonshire branch of human rights group Amnesty International is looking for new members.

Its main function has been to express support for people being treated poorly or tortured having been arrested by writing letters to foreign governments, royalty and to embassies.

Members write when someone has been arrested for no clear reason and demand they either be released or charged with an offence, and if people are detained for expressing their opinion, such as criticising their government, and are considered prisoners of conscience.

Letters are also sent on behalf of people who are facing the death penalty to ask that their sentences be changed so they are less severe.

Information is received by members through the post about an individual or group and who to write to.

The branch meets at the Free Church, Market Hill, St Ives at 7.30pm on the third Thursday of each month, except December. Its next meeting will be held on Thursday, September 18.

INFORMATION: For more details, contact secretary, Michael Champion, on 01480 830603 or you can email michaelchampion@supanet.com. Alternatively, call membership secretary, Henry Berman, on 01480 462958.